Spotlight on Rebecca Samulon, Business Development Producer

From her early days at MPC to roles at Framestore and Cinesite, she has developed a perspective that bridges the creative, production and business sides of the industry.

Now a Business Development Producer at The Mill, Rebecca brings that experience to the conversations that shape projects from the very beginning; helping clients navigate creative ambitions, practical constraints and the realities of VFX production. For her, building a strong partnership starts with listening, setting clear expectations and understanding what a project really needs.

We caught up with Rebecca to talk about her journey into VFX, what she has learned from working across the production and bidding sides of the industry, and why, after more than a decade, it is still the people; and their passion for the work, that keep her excited about what comes next.

You’ve spent your career on both sides of the VFX process, from production to bidding. How does that shape the way you work with clients today?
I started in Montreal as a runner and worked my way up through the creative side, close to artists and TDs, so I understand how the sausage is made, if you will. Moving into bidding and client relationships gave me a different lens, and the importance of budgets and client relations was no longer an abstract idea. Bringing both perspectives together helps me set clear expectations early for all sides, ensuring our teams have the time and support to deliver their best work.

You’ve worked on some pretty big productions, from The Revenant and Ghost in the Shell / Alien: Covenant to Napoleon and X-Men / Dumbo / The Old Guard 2. What have those projects taught you about what clients really need from a VFX partner?
No matter the scale, there’s always a constraint - budget, logistics, or both - and clients still want seamless, beautiful VFX. The biggest lesson is that clarity builds trust: being upfront about what’s achievable and what options exist. When everyone’s aligned early, the work runs smoother and the result is never disappointing.

What makes a project or client relationship exciting for you?
The vision and passion. I have worked on everything from huge blockbusters to art house movies with entirely invisible effects. But what remained the same across every project is the excitement of everybody involved. It's contagious!

What do you think makes a great VFX pitch?
Meeting clients where they are and listening. We aren't here to sell somebody something they don't want. We're here to deliver a beautiful project that stays within its real-world constraints. When we understand what a client is looking for, they know they can trust us.

You’re often the first point of contact between a client and the studio. What do you think makes that first conversation work?
It works when it feels like a real conversation between regular people. If clients leave an initial conversation feeling heard and understood, everything else tends to fall into place. Plenty of studios can deliver great VFX; the difference is getting there. It’s a big part of why so much of our work comes from returning clients.

What can clients expect when they work with you and The Mill?
The Mill in Paris has over 40 years of experience. Us Americans knew about the big international blockbusters. But the bread and butter of our Paris studio, working hand in hand with directors to economically bring their vision to life, is something I have had the pleasure to get to know over the past couple of years. It's all got a certain French je ne sais quoi.

After more than a decade in VFX, what still makes you say: “I want to work on this”?
The people! I didn’t study film, and I didn't take the traditional path into VFX. But I stayed because the people that I have had the chance to work with are passionate, talented, and make coming into work a true delight. Of course, it doesn't hurt that I get to brag about our screenings at Cannes, or the numerous César awards our teams have won.

Spotlight on Rebecca Samulon, The Mill Business Development Producer

With more than a decade of experience in visual effects, Rebecca Samulon has built her career across production, resource management, bidding and client relationships, working with leading VFX studios in Montreal and Europe.